Expert pistol/rifle proficiency

[classOf2016]

How difficult is it to earn expert pistol and rifle proficiency during Plebe summer? While I was a drag last year, my host said "it's easy" but I feel like it has to be somewhat difficult or else everyone would achieve expert. I've been to the firing range a few times and can wield a 9mm and rifle fairly well, but are real shooting skills (i.e. shooting team) necessary?

 

[usnaswim14]

It all depends. You only get one try (usually) at qualifying. I would say the pistol was a lot easier than the rifle but that's just me. The expert standards are fleet wide standards so its not just academy standards. If you've shot before then I would say you will be fine. I had never shot before plebe summer and I still get expert in pistol. One last thing, while the shooting qualifications are one of the most relaxed part of plebe summer you are still going to be stressed out which will affect your shot.

 

[Pachrian]

It can't be all that difficult, my son had never shot anything in his life before and got expert in both.

 

[Hurricane12]

It's not hard. Everyone passes with very few exceptions, and most people get at least Sharpshooter in one.

 

[usnabgo08]

It all depends.

Ditto. To say it is "easy" or "hard" gives you no value. The thing to remember is you will be taught the techniques, you won't be going in "cold." Have confidence in yourself and your coaches, don't worry about expert while on the range; if you place that burden on your shoulders, you might cause yourself undue stress, which could make the slightest difference between Marskman, Sharpshooter, Expert, or unqualified.